MMU denounces forced Vande Mataram recitation in IIOJK schools as un-Islamic
Warns of RSS-driven Hindutva agenda
Srinagar: The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), an alliance of various religious groups in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), has strongly condemned the recent directive issued by the occupation authorities, instructing all schools in the territory to recite Vande Mataram. The MMU expressed deep concern over the “coercive order”, asserting that the Indian national song’s lyrics contradict core Islamic monotheistic beliefs.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the directive issued by the occupied Jammu and Kashmir Department of Culture, instructed schools to mark the 150th year of Vande Mataram through organizing musical and cultural programs that include its recitation, with mandatory participation from students and staff.
In a statement issued in Srinagar, the MMU termed the order as “coercive” and reiterated that singing or reciting Vande Mataram is fundamentally un-Islamic. The group pointed out that the song contains expressions of devotion and reverence that directly conflict with the Islamic belief in Tawheed—the absolute Oneness of Allah.
“Islam prohibits any form of worship or reverence directed towards anyone or anything other than the Creator. The recitation of Vande Mataram involves expressions of such reverence, making it incompatible with Islamic principles,” the statement said.
While emphasizing the importance of love and service to one’s homeland, the MMU stressed that true devotion should be demonstrated through acts of service, compassion, and societal contribution, not through religiously conflicting rituals. “Forcing Muslim students and institutions to participate in activities that violate their faith is both unjust and unacceptable,” the MMU further stated.
The MMU also expressed concern that the directive is not merely a cultural initiative but appears to be part of a broader agenda to impose an RSS-driven Hindutva ideology upon a Muslim-majority region, under the guise of fostering cultural unity.
The MMU has called on the IIOJK authorities to immediately revoke the directive, which has caused widespread anguish among the Muslim population. The organization also demanded that no institution or student be coerced into participating in activities that go against their religious convictions.
